Nigerian Troops Eliminate 34 Boko Haram/ISWAP Terrorists In Borno Clash

On January 4, 2025, the Nigerian military successfully neutralized 34 Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists during a fierce confrontation in Sabon Gari, Damboa Local Government Area, Borno State. Unfortunately, six soldiers lost their lives in the encounter.

Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed the incident in a press statement titled “Terrorists Killed in Attack on Sabon Gari in Damboa LGA of Borno State.”

The confrontation occurred when ISWAP fighters, armed with AK-47 rifles and using motorcycles and gun trucks, attempted to ambush the military in retaliation for the recent death of their commander and fighters. However, Nigerian troops, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), vigilantes, and hybrid forces, repelled the attack effectively.

During the clash, the reinforcement team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED), injuring a vigilante commander. Despite this, they arrived promptly and overwhelmed the fleeing insurgents. The air component of Operation Hadin Kai further intensified the counteroffensive with precise airstrikes on the retreating militants.

A battle damage assessment confirmed that 34 terrorists were killed, while 23 AK-47 rifles and over 200 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition were seized from the attackers.

Regrettably, six brave soldiers were lost in action. The names of the deceased have been withheld pending official notification of their next of kin. The military urged the media to respect this sensitive process.

The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed the Nigerian Armed Forces’ dedication to eradicating insurgency and terrorism, emphasizing their ongoing efforts to safeguard national security and protect citizens.